Chemistry 30

Rates of Reaction

Some chemical reactions, such as the rusting of a nail, are relatively slow - although maybe not slow enough. Other reactions - an explosion for example - are extremely fast. Why are some reactions essentially instantaneous while others take so long it appears as though nothing happens at all?

This unit introduces the concept of reaction rates - how reaction rates can be measured and calculated. You will learn about the collision theory which provides the basis for our understanding of why reactions occur at different rates, and how the speed of a reaction can be altered.

Lesson

Topics

Introduction

1.1 An Introduction to Chemical Kinetics
1.2 Reaction Rates
1.3 Calculating Reaction Rates

The Collision Theory and Reaction Mechanisms

2.1 The Collision Theory
2.2 Reaction Mechanism and the Rate-Determining Step
2.3 Threshold Energy

Activation Energy & Potential Energy Diagrams

3.1 Activation Energy
3.2 Potential Energy Diagrams Revisited

Factors Influencing Reaction Rates

4.1 The Nature of the Reactants
4.2 Temperature
4.3 Concentration and Pressure
4.4 Catalysts